How do I stay confident while parenting a child with autism?
It is not easy navigating services and figuring out what resources may be available. You may experience feelings of guilt and/or frustration with professionals, programs, or systems as a whole. While this can affect your confidence, there are ways to keep you feeling secure and confident.
Join support groups in-person and online. This will allow you to connect with Black parents and caregivers and learn from them. It may also build your confidence as other parents may learn from you and your experiences. Support groups are also places where parents can share their frustrations, mistakes, and fears. Trusted providers can be another source of both validation and support.
Support Groups:
Online Groups:
Here are several Black leaders and professionals who work within the special needs community. There is an emerging field of Black professionals who are dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and their families. Learn more about initiatives both nationwide and locally:
Impact of Black researchers on autismLearn more about Black researchers in North Carolina:
There are often highs and lows when caring for an autistic child. The wins, no matter how small, matter! Try your best to capture and record these moments. Take pictures or journal when special moments happen with your child– maybe after a great therapy session, at gatherings with friends or family, or anytime you share joy with your child. Make a scrapbook or record those times in your journal to help recall the small wins and boost your confidence anytime. Read stories about other children and families.
Learn about the children, teens, and adults who were involved in BFAST:
BFAST - Meet the Kids
Learn about healthy ways to celebrate success:
Healthy ways to celebrate
Learn about scrapbooking:
Free, online scrapbook makers:
Re-discover your interests and hobbies. Connect with friends and family who brighten your day or make you laugh. Make a list of things that you enjoy doing and take steps to include them in your day. At times, mental health support may be helpful or needed. Avoid letting stigma stand in the way of getting what you need. There is never shame in reaching out for support.
Self-care strategies for parents of children with autism:
Taking care of yourself - Autism Speaks
Importance of self-care and mindfulness:
Self-care and Mindfulness
Mental health journal for Black Women:
Prompts and Practices to Prioritize Yourself
Self-care workbook for Black Women:
52 week guided check-in journal
Mental health resources filtered by county:
Mental Health Resources - by county
Families in crisis or distress call 988, a national Crisis Lifeline that provides 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in emotional distress or crisis.
BFAST is a UNC TEACCH Autism Program project in collaboration with the Autism Society of NC and the Frank
Porter Graham Child Development Institute made possible through funding from the C Felix Harvey Foundation
